Petrol bombs and masonry thrown at PSNI during three hours of disorder in Coleraine

by Q Radio News

The PSNI has said its officers were pelted with petrol bombs and masonry during three hours of disorder in Coleraine. 

A crowd of around 40 people gathered in the Atlantic Road area at around 7.45pm. 

Police say many of them were masked and were mostly teenagers, who attempted to block the road by setting fire to pallets. 

A total of seven petrol bombs were thrown at officers, with masonry and missiles causing damage to some police vehicles. 

At around 10.45pm, officers had dispersed the crowd and restored order to the area.

North Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Davy Beck said: "The senseless disorder we saw unfold in a residential area in Coleraine has achieved nothing but leave people petrified in their homes.

"Such reckless criminal activity has only served to harm the local community by those who deliberately chose to engage in such disorder.

“Thankfully, none of our officers were injured as a result of the attacks, however, some of our vehicles did sustain damage, and that damage is currently being assessed.

"I want to make a direct appeal to parents, guardians and community leaders to use their influence to ensure we do not see a repeat of such ugly scenes. This is not wanted by anyone and does not represent the local community who we know just want to live in peace.

“I want to reassure the community that we will continue to work to keep people safe and those who engaged in last night’s disorder should be warned that an investigation is underway and evidence gathered will now be reviewed and those identified will face the full rigour of the law.”  

Trouble flared on the Atlantic Road, Coleraine where police say up to 40 people gathered. 

East Derry/Londonderry MLA Cara Hunter has appealed for calm in the Coleraine area.

She said, "The last thing people in this community want is further disruption. I understand that tensions are running high but resorting to this kind of behaviour only damages local people and services.

“The crowd burning refuse, blocking roads and intimidating people in this community needs to stop. They need to go home and let people get on with their lives.

“This is a time for calm. Things don’t need to escalate. Young people don’t need to end up with criminal convictions. I’m appealing for everyone to exercise their influence to reduce tensions in our community.”

MLA Cara Hunter speaking to Q Radio